Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Barkha ChikaraChief Medical Officer, MD (Psychiatry) from NIMHANS · Last reviewed October 2026Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong difference in development that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others and experiences the world. Signs usually appear in early childhood but may be recognised later. It is not a disease, and support can help a person do well.
About 1 in 10 adults in India lives with a mental disorder (National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16). You are not alone.
At a glance
Common signs
- Delayed speech or language development
- Difficulty with social interaction and eye contact
- Restricted or repetitive behaviours
- Sensory sensitivities
How it is usually treated
- Applied Behaviour Analysis
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Social Skills Training
Where to start
A free pre-consultation call, then a video assessment with a psychiatrist. In danger? Call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Book your free pre-consultation callRegistered clinicians: psychiatrists with their State Medical Council, psychologists with the Rehabilitation Council of India.
Signs
Tick any that feel familiar. This is not a diagnosis, only a clinician can assess you.
0 ticked. If these have been with you for a while, a free pre-consultation call is a good next step.
Book your free pre-consultation callHow people often describe it
- “My child does not make eye contact or talk much”
- “I find social situations confusing”
- “I need routines and get upset by change”
- “I am sensitive to sounds, lights or textures”
People who live with autism spectrum disorder may also notice ADHD, generalised anxiety or sleep problems. If any of these sound familiar, mention them to your clinician so your plan can cover them.
When to get help soon
Talk to a doctor soon if a child is not speaking by two years or has lost skills they had. Call 112 or Tele-MANAS on 14416 if anyone is in distress or danger.
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis uses a detailed developmental history from parents, observation of the child, and sometimes structured tests by a team. A psychiatrist is part of that assessment, and other professionals may be involved.
Treatment and support
- There is no cure; support aims to help communication, learning and everyday skills
- Speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and social-skills training
- Behaviour-based approaches, delivered with respect for the child
- Parent-mediated support at home
- School inclusion and support
- Care for related anxiety, sleep or attention difficulties
How Mindly helps
Mindly's psychiatrists can assess concerns, explain what they find and guide families on next steps and the therapies that may help. All care is online, by video.
Your first appointment
A psychiatrist takes a detailed history from you, and from parents or teachers for a child, across home, school and work.
Who is involved
Your psychiatrist leads the assessment and treatment plan. A clinical psychologist can help with skills, routines and support at school or work.
Between sessions
Reviews look at day-to-day functioning, and family involvement is built into the plan.
What to expect
- Free pre-consultation callWe take your history and details, and match you with the right clinician.
- First consultationA video call in your language, with a clinician who already has your report.
- Your planYour clinician agrees a plan with you: therapy, medicine or both, as suits you.
- Follow-up reviewsRegular check-ins, and your plan is adjusted as you recover.
- Staying wellSupport to keep you well and catch early signs of a setback.
Every Mindly plan includes a second opinion from our Chief Medical Officer, a diagnosis-first approach and regular tracking of your recovery. How Mindly care works
Book your free pre-consultation callYour privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
At what age can autism be diagnosed?
Signs can be seen by 18 to 24 months, and a reliable diagnosis is often possible by two to three years. Some people are diagnosed later, including as adults.
Is autism a disease or a disability?
It is a neurodevelopmental difference. Some people need substantial support and others need less.
Can adults be assessed?
Yes. Many adults seek an assessment later in life.
Clinicians with a focus in this area
Dr. Divya GurunathanPsychiatrist - Women's Mental Health & Child Psychiatry- Dr. Barkha ChikaraCo-Founder & Chief Medical Officer, Psychiatrist
Dr. Vineet PaliFounder & COO, Psychiatrist
Ms. Janvi KhokharClinical Psychologist
Dr. Pooja RaniPsychiatrist
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